Monday, January 14, 2019
To the family of Mrs. Canil: You don't know me, but I grew up in the Olive Farms subdivision at the corner of Chelsea and Grosvenor. My childhood home was recently demolished with many other Chelsea Road homes. I met your mom a few times over the years and thought she was a lovely person. Many times I encountered Kenny in his travels and as the years went by and I married and left the neighbourhood I often wondered what became of him. Our first child was born with cerebral palsy and after we moved to McGregor Tara was often invited to parties and activities put on by the Alhambra organization in connection with Community Living. I used to see a gentleman at these events who seemed strangely familiar, but I couldn't place him. Then at one of the Christmas parties I heard someone call him Ken and it suddenly came to me who he was. Of course he was an adult by then, but he looked great and seemed so well cared for. It was so nice to know that he was in good hands. At one of the early parties your Dad was there with him and we sat with him and had a nice conversation. Wasn't sure if Kenny ever remembered me, but it was still great to see him. He was part of my growing up and probably my first experience with a special needs person. I didn't know that Ken now resides in McGregor. I hope he is doing well. Our daughter will be 40 this year, so I'm assuming that Ken must be in his sixties. I was sorry to hear of your mom's passing. If her final years were a struggle, I pray that it was a blessing, as it was with my mom, Jean Hurley, in 2005. The subdivision we grew up in was a wonderful place for kids to start out and Kenny is one of the many fond memories I have of that time. Would like to have attended the service tomorrow, but I am unable. Your are in my prayers. Sincerely Peg (Hurley) Leithead
